American Society for Microbiology (ASM)

Professional Associations, Institutes & Societies

Date posted: 08/13/09

The American Society for Microbiology is the oldest and largest single life science membership organization in the world. Membership has grown from 59 scientists in 1899 to more than 39,000 members today, with more than one third located outside the United States. The members represent 26 disciplines of microbiological specialization plus a division for microbiology educators. Microbiologists study microbesbacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, mycoplasma, fungi, algae and protozoasome of which cause diseases, but many of which contribute to the balance of nature or are otherwise beneficial. Microbiological research includes infectious diseases, recombinant DNA technology, alternative methods of energy production and waste recycling, new sources of food, new drug development, and the etiology of sexually transmitted diseases, among other areas. Microbiology is also concerned with environmental problems and industrial processes.